Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Contact
Affiliations
Accomplishments
Certification
Languages
References
Timeline
Generic
Rahul Takalkar

Rahul Takalkar

Mumbai

Summary

Strategic leader and business professional with a proven track record of success in start-up environments. Expertise in managing product lifecycles from ideation to market launch, resulting in profitable monetization. Demonstrates a strong entrepreneurial spirit and adaptability, effectively tackling new challenges with patience and perseverance.

Overview

28
28
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Startup Founder

Dhrishay Foodworks LLP
Mumbai
05.2022 - Current
  • Developed long-range plans for business growth, resulting in increase in annual sales.
  • Ensured compliance with legal and regulatory requirements relevant to the business operations.
  • Developed strategies for marketing campaigns to increase brand awareness.
  • Optimized supply chain to reduce materials costs and improve distribution.
  • Fostered collaboration and development of new practices by business leaders.
  • Led marketing efforts, including brand development, digital marketing strategies, and public relations campaigns.
  • Negotiated contracts with vendors for resources needed for the startup.
  • Conducted ongoing competitive analysis to inform strategic decisions and maintain competitive advantage.
  • Contributed ideas for improving operational efficiency and increasing profitability.
  • Designed and launched innovative products and services, ensuring they meet market needs and customer satisfaction.
  • Managed company finances, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting to stakeholders.

Food Service Consultant

BA-KUS HOSPITALITY LLP
Mumbai
01.2017 - 04.2022
  • Trained new employees on restaurant policies, procedures, and customer service standards.
  • Assisted in the development of menus to meet customer needs and preferences.
  • Reviewed daily task list with employees and assigned tasks for completion.
  • Worked in close collaboration with team members to ensure customers received high-quality service.
  • Trained front-of-house staff on restaurant policies and procedures, guest service techniques and communication skills to promote positive experiences.
  • Advised management on strategies for improving efficiency within the kitchen environment by utilizing technology solutions or other innovative approaches.
  • Resolved customer complaints regarding food quality or service issues promptly and professionally.
  • Adhered to company food, safety, quality and sanitation policies.
  • Implemented cost control measures to reduce expenses and increase profitability.

Country Head ( Brand KFC)

Devyani International Nigeria Ltd
Lagos
05.2015 - 06.2016
  • Provided leadership in driving change initiatives within the country office by developing action plans and engaging employees in a positive manner.
  • Managed risk by developing and implementing effective risk management strategies.
  • Enhanced sales volume through skilled support to both new and inactive customers.
  • Conducted regular audits of operational procedures in order to optimize efficiency.
  • Organized quarterly meetings between regional offices to review performance metrics and track progress towards strategic objectives.
  • Negotiated contracts with suppliers and vendors in order to secure favorable terms.
  • Coached, developed and motivated team to achieve revenue goals.
  • Managed annual budgeting and forecasting, optimizing resource allocation.
  • Led team meetings and one-on-one coaching sessions to continuously improve performance.
  • Cultivated strong professional relationships with suppliers and key clients to drive long-term business development.
  • Analyzed market trends and competitor activity to inform business strategy.

Chief Operating Officer ( Brand KFC)

Devyani International Nigeria Ltd
Lagos
01.2011 - 05.2014
  • Leading initiatives to strengthen market presence for KFC under Yum Restaurants.
  • Achieved outstanding outcomes in Top Line, Cash Profits, building people capabilities and customer experience for KFC Nigeria.
  • Developed and maintained live recognition programs for restaurant staff.
  • Established systems to ensure efficient restaurant management aligned with Yum principles.
  • Led initiatives in new product development and business growth.
  • Optimized Market Rollout by maintaining an organized Marketing Calendar.
  • Focused on nurturing talents for effective business development in a competitive market.
  • Worked on projects to optimize restaurant models, focusing on long-term maintenance cost-efficiencies.
  • Maintained emphasis on customer listening programs to improve service delivery speed.
  • Attained exceptional overall average of 95% in third-party Customer Mystery Shopping conducted by Yum.
  • Positioned KFC as a competitive player in Nigeria's tough market conditions.
  • Strengthened professional expertise within the market, leading to reduced costs of expatriates.
  • Implemented strategic offerings to enhance company's suite of products and services.
  • Facilitated cross-departmental collaboration to achieve business goals.

Business & Operations Head

Fun Multiplex Pvt Ltd.
Mumbai
06.2006 - 01.2011
  • Capitalized on volatile industry trends to drive revenue through alternative resources.
  • Responsible for the detailed budgeting and strategy planning of the area.
  • Created strategic calendar for regional marketing initiatives and evaluated outcomes.
  • Coordinated renovation projects and implemented standard operating procedures.
  • Monthly Business Reviews for revision in strategies and implementation of the same.
  • Facilitated essential business operations through government engagements.
  • Coordinated acquisition of necessary licenses from various departments including police, revenue, and fire services.
  • Won the Intra Essel Group “CHANAKYA Business Management Game” at IIMA for 2008-09 IIMA for 2008-09.
  • Developed and monitored operational budgets, achieving a reduction in unnecessary expenditures.
  • Established performance metrics to evaluate operational efficiency and guide team objectives.

Regional Manager

Domino's Pizza India Ltd.
Mumbai
01.2005 - 01.2006
  • Achieved annual sales growth of 35.14% in primary revenue generation.
  • Reviewed profitability by focusing on revenue generation, cost management, planning and performance evaluation.
  • Contributed to brand building initiatives with consistent audit scores averaging 90%.
  • Facilitated bulk booking sales by establishing partnerships with companies such as Hutch, Coco Cola, Big Bazaar, and Shopper’s Stop.
  • Demonstrated resilience by maintaining operations and setting a sales record during severe weather in July 2005.
  • Earned Manager of the Year 2001 for all European countries.
  • Earned recognition as the premier Top Gun Manager in Southeast Asia with Domino's Pizza Ltd.
  • Nominated for International Training Manager of the Year, 2004, from India.
  • Planned and delivered training sessions to improve employee effectiveness and address areas of weakness.

Training Manager

Domino's Pizza India Ltd.
Mumbai
01.2003 - 01.2005
  • Prioritized employee growth as a key factor in brand success and business expansion.
  • Trained District, Store, and all other level managers and team members across Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Goa.
  • Conducted training sessions and skill development programs for managers at various organizational levels.
  • Designed and implemented training sessions across all management tiers to enhance team efficiency.
  • Oversaw the implementation of numerous product trials throughout tenure.
  • Roleplayed various scenarios with teams to build confidence in handling situations.
  • Maintained comprehensive database to track training, certifications and qualifications.

Manager – Operations

Domino's Pizza India Ltd.
Mumbai
01.1999 - 01.2003
  • Oversaw and managed multiple operations within the store.
  • Oversaw district and area managerial responsibilities.
  • Supervised area management for outlets situated in Phoenix Market City and key zones of South Mumbai.
  • Executed national marketing strategies using available resources optimally.
  • Helped the Stores in enhancing their EBITDA growth over financial year 2001-2002 by 27%.
  • Successfully re-introduced employees at managerial levels in the system, achieving recognition as Top Gun Manager for 2000-2001.
  • Coordinated recruitment and training programs for new team members.
  • Enhanced procedures, boosting operational efficiency.

Camp Boss

Radhakrishna Hospitality Services Ltd.
Mumbai
01.1997 - 01.1999
  • Oversaw daily operations and managed costs for three remote site catering units at Jamnagar serving 1000 employees of Essar Oil Ltd.
  • Oversaw unit operations, ensuring seamless coordination of catering services.
  • Created structured curriculum ensuring seamless integration of newcomers.
  • Prepared weekly reports detailing progress made at the campsite.
  • Developed strategies to improve operational efficiency while reducing costs associated with running a successful business.
  • Monitored the maintenance and repair of all equipment, buildings, vehicles, and other facilities.

Education

Bachelor Of Hotel Management -

Institute Of Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition
Alto Porvorim, Goa
01.1997

Robert Money Technical College
Mumbai, Maharashtra
01.1994

St. Xavier's High School
Mumbai, Maharashtra
01.1992

Skills

  • Business strategy
  • Market analysis
  • Financial management
  • Supply chain optimization
  • Digital marketing
  • Contract negotiation
  • Operational efficiency
  • Brand development
  • Customer relationship management
  • Employee engagement
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Risk assessment
  • Organizational structuring
  • Cash flow management
  • Supply chain management
  • Analytical thinking
  • Growth mindset

Contact

+91 9820225159, rrahul.takalkar@gmail.com

Affiliations

  • Active member of a top international networking group, BNI
  • I have been in leadership roles at various networking groups, such as President, Vice President, and Mentor

Accomplishments

  • International Store Manager Of The Year 2001 - Domino's International ( Europe & Asia Market)
  • Nominated for International Training Manager Of The Year 2004 - DPIL
  • 1st Top Gun Manager for Domino's Pizza India Ltd.
  • Best Guest Experience Survey Score for Africa Market - KFC
  • Best Compliance and Operations managed for Africa Market - KFC

Certification

  • Hotel Management, Catering Technology, Applied Nutrition

Languages

Marathi
First Language
English
Proficient (C2)
C2
Hindi
Advanced (C1)
C1

References

References available upon request.

Timeline

Startup Founder

Dhrishay Foodworks LLP
05.2022 - Current

Food Service Consultant

BA-KUS HOSPITALITY LLP
01.2017 - 04.2022

Country Head ( Brand KFC)

Devyani International Nigeria Ltd
05.2015 - 06.2016

Chief Operating Officer ( Brand KFC)

Devyani International Nigeria Ltd
01.2011 - 05.2014

Business & Operations Head

Fun Multiplex Pvt Ltd.
06.2006 - 01.2011

Regional Manager

Domino's Pizza India Ltd.
01.2005 - 01.2006

Training Manager

Domino's Pizza India Ltd.
01.2003 - 01.2005

Manager – Operations

Domino's Pizza India Ltd.
01.1999 - 01.2003

Camp Boss

Radhakrishna Hospitality Services Ltd.
01.1997 - 01.1999

Bachelor Of Hotel Management -

Institute Of Hotel Management, Catering Technology and Applied Nutrition

Robert Money Technical College

St. Xavier's High School
Rahul Takalkar